Ferrari offers Tailor-Made program

Ferrari is going haute couture with the introduction of its Tailor-Made package. It's for clients who think that a $200,000 Ferrari just isn't exclusive enough. The Tailor-Made package offers almost any trim, any exterior color and any material inside.

Currently, owners make additions to their car from Ferrari's Carrozzeria Scaglietti program. The options offered are of the normal variety--think rearview camera, racing seats and other trim.

The new personalization program is broken down into three groups:

-- Scuderia, which emphasizes the company's motorsports history.

-- Classica, which offers a modern interpretation of vintage Ferrari styling.

-- Inedita, which introduces an element of experimentation and innovation to the styling.

In the 1950s and '60s, it was tradition in Maranello that clients personalized their cars right from the factory. Like this new program, buyers could choose materials, colors and finish. Now the company offers denim, several kinds of leather, suede, carbon fiber and almost anything else the wallet desires.

Owners participating in the program will be guided by Ferrari professionals, who guarantee that the car will be both unique and consistent with the Ferrari brand. Clients will use a computer program to visualize their choices and will be able to follow the build of their car as well. Customers are also welcome to pick the car up from the factory once the build is completed.

The Scuderia options highlight the brand's racing history. The list of materials ranges from carbon fiber to rubber, leather and Kevlar. Clients who choose the Scuderia collection will have the lightest, fastest Ferraris available.

The Classica collection carries styling cues from the company's GT cars. Pastel paint colors are offered, along with vintage leather, wool, cashmere or velvet. Chrome elements can be added, along with stitching details and woodgrain.

The Inedita trim is the most novel of the bunch. Material choices include denim, bold leather and other technical fabrics. This is the most experimental of the collections, according to Ferrari, and might give rise to some trims of the future.

Pricing, in addition to the cost of the car, hasn't yet been announced. But as the old adage goes, if you have to ask . . .

By Jake Lingeman